Hangout

Hangout

Clinical Psychologist Samuel Panti Cautions Young People Against Hiding Mental Health Struggles

/

Clinical psychologist Samuel Panti has cautioned young people against keeping their mental health struggles to themselves, stating that silence can deepen challenges and lead to serious long-term consequences. Speaking on Springboard Hangout, with host Comfort Ocran, Mr. Panti stressed that many individuals delay seeking help because they believe they must handle their problems alone or fear being judged. He explained that this mindset is not only misleading but harmful, as human beings are wired to depend on one another for support. According to him, “we are not meant to deal with this whole life by ourselves,” adding that isolation often worsens mental health conditions that could otherwise be managed early with the right support. The Clinical Psychologist noted that one of the most common yet overlooked dangers is the habit of internalizing stress. He explained that people may appear fine on the outside while struggling internally, which delays intervention and allows the situation to escalate. He emphasized that mental health challenges do not always begin as severe conditions. Instead, they often start as small issues such as poor sleep, negative thinking patterns, or emotional distress. However, when ignored, these can gradually affect a person’s physical health, relationships, and productivity. “If you keep it there for a longer period and you do not address it, the impact can be huge,” he said. Addressing the stigma around seeking help, Mr. Panti challenged the belief that asking for support is a sign of weakness. He explained that reaching out is a step toward strength and recovery, especially when one’s personal coping capacity has been stretched. “At a point in time, you get tired. At a point in time, your bank will get depleted. You have to ask for help,” he said. He further encouraged individuals to identify trusted people within their circles, including friends, family members, or professionals, who can provide a safe space for honest conversations. He advised seeking therapists or counsellors who are trained to offer guidance and support. Mr. Panti noted that mental health must become a regular part of everyday conversations in homes, schools, and communities, and believes that normalizing these discussions will make it easier for people to speak up early and receive the help they need before their situation worsens. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

“Fear Is Delaying Treatment and Costing Lives” — Dr. Sompa  Otabil-Nelson Urges Young People to Stop Avoiding Health Checks

/

Family & Holistic Medicine Physician & CEO of Dinah-Gayle Medical Clinic, Dr. Sompa Otabil-Nelson, has raised concern over the growing tendency among young people to delay seeking medical care out of fear, warning that this hesitation is allowing manageable conditions to become life-threatening. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, she revealed that many individuals ignore symptoms or postpone hospital visits for months, only seeking help when their condition has significantly worsened. According to her, the issue is not always a lack of access, but fear of diagnosis. She explained that even when people notice unusual changes in their bodies, they often choose silence over action, hoping the problem will resolve on its own. Dr. Sompa disclosed that in some cases, individuals take as long as 8 to 10 months to see a doctor after detecting symptoms. Even after an initial consultation, many delay further tests or treatment for several more months because they are afraid of what they might find. “Fear will cripple you and can even kill you,” she stated, stressing that delay remains one of the biggest threats to effective healthcare. She noted that many of these conditions, including certain cancers, can be treated successfully when detected early. However, the window for effective treatment narrows significantly when patients wait too long. Early-stage conditions, she explained, often have high recovery rates, but that advantage is lost when diagnosis is delayed. Dr. Sompa emphasised that this pattern is particularly worrying among young people, who often assume they are healthy and therefore do not prioritize routine checkups. This false sense of security, she said, prevents early detection of silent conditions that develop without obvious symptoms. She further explained that the body can adapt to underlying problems for long periods, giving individuals the impression that everything is normal until a sudden health crisis occurs. Beyond fear, she also pointed to a lack of structured health planning, noting that many people do not have a consistent relationship with a medical professional who understands their history and can guide them over time. To address the situation, she urged young people to take deliberate steps toward preventive care, starting with regular medical checkups at least once a year. She stressed that health should not be treated as a one-time concern but as a continuous responsibility. “If you do not know what is happening in your body, how will you know when something is wrong? The earlier you deal with it, the better your chances,” she said, calling for a shift in mindset where people choose action over avoidance when it comes to their health. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

“Don’t rush the process; take time to build your skill” — Nate the Barber Urges Young Entrepreneurs

/

Nathaniel Osei, entrepreneur and founder of Nate the Barber’s Place, has advised young people to resist the growing pressure for quick success, stressing that real and lasting businesses are built through time, discipline, and a deep commitment to learning. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, he pointed out that many aspiring entrepreneurs are eager to see results but are unwilling to stay long enough in the learning phase to truly understand their craft. According to him, this impatience often becomes the very reason many ventures struggle to stand the test of time. “A lot of people nowadays are rushing through the process, and that’s where they miss it,” he said, explaining that the process is not a delay but the very foundation of excellence. Drawing from his own journey, Mr. Osei shared that his path into barbering started at a very young age and was shaped by years of practice, observation, and sacrifice. He revealed that he spent close to five years working without pay, not because there was no opportunity to earn, but because his focus at the time was to become exceptionally good at what he was doing. “I worked for free for almost five years. At the time, it was just passion. I loved it so much, I didn’t really care about being paid,” he noted, adding that those years gave him a level of experience that money could not buy. He explained that beyond skill, the process also builds discipline and clarity. By the time he stepped into paid work and later entrepreneurship, he was not experimenting blindly but working from a place of confidence and understanding. “I learned everything I needed 10 years before I started my business,” he said. Mr. Osei further encouraged young people to develop a strong sense of identity in their work, rather than following every new trend. In his view, knowing what you stand for and committing to it is what sets serious entrepreneurs apart from those who are easily distracted. “You have to understand what you stand for and stay true to it, because trends will always change,” he explained. He also highlighted consistency as a key driver of growth, noting that success is not built on occasional effort but on the ability to show up repeatedly, even when progress is slow or unnoticed. “You have to always show up, no matter what the situation is. That is what builds you over time,” he said. Reflecting on the challenges he faced, including setbacks and difficult working environments, the accomplished barber said those experiences were necessary in shaping his mindset and preparing him for leadership. He urged young entrepreneurs to stop seeing hardship as a sign to quit, and rather see it as part of the training. “It’s always important to pay attention to the process, because the process is what is going to make you who you are,” he stated. He maintained that for young people who are willing to commit to learning, stay disciplined, and trust the journey, there is a real opportunity to build businesses that command respect and deliver lasting value. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

“Having an Idea is not enough; execution is everything, ” says Derrick Annoh

/

Derrick Annoh, Chief Executive Officer of Sparkxx Foods and Beverages, has emphasised that the success of any business idea depends on execution, not just creativity or intention. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, he noted that while many people have ideas, only a few commit to the discipline and consistency required to turn those ideas into reality. He explained that his own journey into entrepreneurship began on a small scale, producing snacks from his mother’s kitchen with limited resources and learning through constant experimentation. According to him, the early stages of building Sparkxx Foods and Beverages were marked by setbacks and repeated adjustments. “You try, it doesn’t work, you learn from it, and you try again. That is how the process has been,” he stated. Mr. Annoh indicated that one of the biggest challenges he faced was maintaining consistency in production while dealing with constraints in raw materials. He stressed that such challenges are part of the business journey and must be managed with patience and focus. He further highlighted the importance of quality in building a sustainable brand, stating that customer loyalty is built on trust. “If people trust your product, they will come back. But that trust comes from being consistent with what you offer,” he said. Touching on the growth of the business, he noted that Sparkxx Foods and Beverages has expanded from small beginnings into a brand with products on major retail shelves and presence in international markets. He advised aspiring entrepreneurs to stop waiting for perfect conditions before starting. “You don’t need everything figured out before you begin. Start with what you have and build from there,” he said. Mr. Annoh added that Ghanaian businesses have the potential to compete globally if they remain committed to quality, discipline, and continuous improvement. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

Nguvu Global Expands Shea Business Supporting Over 1,000 Women in Northern Ghana

/

Freditta Apeagyei, Founder of Nguvu Global Ltd, and Francesca Apeagyei, Co-Founder of the company, say their shea-based skincare business is creating economic opportunities for more than 1,000 women in Northern Ghana while promoting locally produced beauty products. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the entrepreneurs explained that Nguvu Global works directly with women involved in harvesting and processing shea nuts, building a growing value chain around one of Ghana’s most widely used natural products. According to Freditta Apeagyei, the company was established to build a business around natural shea butter skincare products while recognising the women whose work sustains the industry. “Nguvu means strength. The name was derived from the women who produce the shea butter. They are strong, capable, and productive women who have gone through so much but still continue working,” she said. She noted that the company currently produces a range of about thirteen skincare products made from shea and other natural ingredients, including refined and unrefined shea, black soap, charcoal soap, oils, shampoos, and conditioners. “We have dedicated pickers and producers. Some go to the plantations to pick the nuts, and others process them. The raw materials come from nature and are then sent to our production centre in Accra,” Freditta Apeagyei said. Francesca Apeagyei explained that one of the brand’s best-selling shea products was discovered during a visit to Tamale, where she encountered a locally made formulation that stood out. “I tried it and said no way. I sent it to Freditta in the UK and told her she had to try it. When she tried it she said, what are we waiting for? There was something about the formulation that people needed to know about,” she said. Beyond the commercial side of the business, the sisters added that the company has also undertaken community development initiatives in the areas where its shea raw materials are sourced. According to them, the decision to build a preschool near one of the production sites came after observing that many women had to bring their young children to work because there were no nearby schools. “We decided to build a preschool for the factory workers’ children so that parents can drop them off and go to work safely,” she said. The sisters added that they intend to continue expanding the shea value chain while creating more employment opportunities for women and supporting social initiatives in the communities where the business operates. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

“The Future of Agro Processing Is Value Addition” – Dr. Rosemond Dadzie Calls for Farmer Collaboration and Zero Waste Production

/

Food scientist and lecturer Dr. Rosemond Dadzie, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Fountain Foods, says the future of Ghana’s agro-processing sector depends on adding value to local produce, working closely with farmers, and eliminating waste at every stage of production. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, Dr. Dadzie explained that these principles have shaped the steady growth of her Cape Coast-based agro-processing company over the past few years. According to her, Fountain Foods has expanded significantly since its early days, increasing its product range from 7 to 14 while strengthening its production processes and improving product packaging. “When you first came, we had about 7 products. Now we have doubled the number to about 14 products,” she said, noting that the company has also moved from simple plastic packaging to customized branded packaging as part of efforts to improve quality and presentation. Dr. Dadzie added that the company’s market presence has also grown steadily. What began with a presence mainly in Cape Coast and Tarkwa has now expanded to other major markets, including Accra, Kumasi, and Sunyani, as demand for locally processed food products continues to rise. Beyond market expansion, she stressed that a deliberate zero-waste philosophy is central to how the company operates. According to her, every stage of production is carefully managed to ensure that little or nothing goes to waste. “We do not throw them away. After the sieving stage, we mill the particles again to produce fine gari. What remains at the very end is used for animal feed,” she explained. Dr. Dadzie also highlighted the importance of partnerships with farmers in sustaining the company’s growth. She disclosed that Fountain Foods currently works with about 50 to 60 farmers under a structured supply system that ensures each farmer has a scheduled date to deliver produce. “We have a schedule for them. A farmer knows that on a particular date, he is supplying cassava to Fountain Foods, and we do not bypass anyone when their time comes because they are expecting that opportunity,” she said. She explained that the system helps guarantee a reliable supply of raw materials while also giving farmers a stable market for their produce. According to her, Fountain Foods currently produces about 650 tons of flour each year, in addition to other products such as pepper powder, ginger powder, natural mixed spices, and ground nut paste. Despite this output, Dr. Dadzie noted that demand for cassava-based products continues to rise across the country. “The demand is quite high, and we are working very hard to meet it,” she said, adding that the company sometimes has to extend working hours to fulfill urgent orders from distributors in different parts of the country. Dr. Dadzie encouraged greater collaboration within the agro-processing sector, stressing that partnerships among processors could help businesses expand their markets while meeting increasing consumer demand. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout, News

Comfort Ocran Marks International Women’s Day with the National Pensions Regulatory Authority.

/

March 9, 2026, was an inspiring moment of reflection and dialogue as Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, joined the National Pensions Regulatory Authority to commemorate International Women’s Day under the theme “Give to Gain.” The gathering celebrated the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women while marking an important milestone: the launch of the NPRA Women’s Wing. The initiative is designed to create a platform that encourages mentorship, strengthens community among women, and empowers women to reach greater heights in their personal and professional lives. Mrs. Ocran delivered remarks on the topic “Empowering Women, Securing Futures: Leadership and Impact in the Pension Sector.” Speaking to over 50 women of the Authority, she shared practical insights on the importance of financial planning and long-term investing as critical foundations for a secure retirement. She emphasized that consistent investment over time can create sustainable financial returns and long-term stability. Her message also highlighted the transformative role women play not only as professionals and leaders, but as builders of resilient families, stronger communities, and inclusive economic growth. “Securing your future isn’t just about you. It is about your children and the generations after them,” she noted. Mrs. Ocran also encouraged women to actively support one another in their journeys toward leadership and financial independence. “Financial security is part of empowerment. Empowerment is incomplete if a woman works hard all her life and still struggles in old age.” The engagement reaffirmed the commitment of the Springboard Road Show Foundation to empower young people, particularly women, to achieve their full potential while contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable society. Deputy CEO Victor Azuma Majida, speaking on behalf of the CEO of NPRA, Mr. Chris Boadi-Mensah highlighted the launch of the NPRA Women’s Wing as a journey to equality and empowerment. He emphasized “Creating an inclusive environment is vital for amplifying every voice. This initiative aims to provide resources and support for women, fostering a collaborative hub for inspiration and addressing challenges”. Majida noted that inclusive leadership boosts performance and innovation, asserting that investing in women’s leadership is essential for advancing gender equality and enhancing NPRA’s vision and mission for the future. Also, in her remarks Madam Efua Appiah-Gyimah, leader of NPRA Women’s Wing spoke about the significance of the establishment of the women’s wing.   “The establishment of this Wing represents a deliberate commitment to creating a supportive platform that encourages mentorship, leadership development, collaboration, and empowerment among women in the authority. It is a connection where women can share experiences, nurture talent, build confidence, and inspire one another to reach greater heights.” She said. Madam Efua Appiah – Gyimah added that the initiative reflects the Authority’s broader commitment to inclusion, excellence, and institutional growth. The event concluded as a moment of reflection, inspiration, and renewed commitment to ensuring that more women are equipped to plan boldly for their futures while uplifting others along the way.  

Hangout

Aseda Foundation Trains Over 14,500 Young People in Vocational Skills Across 13 Regions in 25 Years

/

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Aseda Foundation, Diana Adjei, has revealed that the organisation has trained more than 14,500 people across 13 regions of Ghana over the past 25 years, providing free vocational skills training and startup support to young people and adults. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, Madam Adjei recounted how the foundation began in 1999 from a small kiosk in Takoradi, where she started training young women in hairdressing at no cost. According to her, many of the young women she encountered were seeking income and direction in life, and she felt compelled to act. “I told them I would teach them for free, without charging them anything,” she said, adding that she made a personal decision from the very first day not to take money from trainees. The initiative, which started as a beauty training centre, has since expanded into a full-scale vocational training foundation offering 28 trades, including masonry, carpentry, tiling, fabrication, welding and catering. In 2017, the foundation scaled up its operations by collaborating with over 220 master craftsmen in the Western Region to train young people free of charge. The same year, Madam Diana Adjei submitted a proposal to the GNPC Foundation to support the programme with certification and tools. Through the partnership, trainees now sit for National Vocational Training Institute examinations and receive certification, along with startup tools to enable them to establish their own businesses. “Training alone is not enough,” she stated. “Some people would finish learning a skill but still go back to selling on the streets because they didn’t have money to start a shop.” According to her, the foundation trains an average of about 2,000 people each year. In 2025, 2,550 people were trained, bringing the total number of beneficiaries under the GNPC partnership to approximately 14,500 nationwide. Madam Adjei also emphasised the foundation’s commitment to inclusion, stating that there is no age limit for trainees and that persons with disabilities are fully integrated into the programme. She disclosed that last year, more than 100 persons with disabilities were trained in areas such as mushroom farming, snail farming and soap making, and were provided with startup kits. Currently operating in 13 regions, the foundation continues to extend its reach while seeking to establish a stronger presence in the remaining regions. “I don’t want a situation where young people must sell small items just to raise money before they can begin their trade,” she said, appealing to individuals and organisations to support the vision of creating sustainable pathways from training to employment. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube

Hangout

Eusbett Hotel Expands from 18 to 250 Rooms, Diversifies into Agribusiness and Manufacturing

/

Eusbett Hotel in Sunyani has expanded from an 18-room facility to a 250-room hospitality establishment while diversifying into multiple business ventures, including water production, agribusiness, and automobile services, according to its General Manager, Mr. Robert Mensah. Speaking on the Springboard Hangout with Comfort Ocran, Mr. Robert Mensah said the growth reflects years of deliberate expansion and value-driven leadership since he assumed management more than two decades ago. “I took over when it was an 18-bedroom hotel. Now we have developed to a 250-room hotel,” he said. Mr. Robert Mensah explained that beyond accommodation, the hotel has established several supporting businesses to enhance operations and create additional revenue streams. These include a water production unit, where the company treats water from its own boreholes, with plans to expand to the commercial market after securing Food and Drugs Authority approval. The company has also expanded into yogurt and juice production to support its hospitality services. “Currently we are using only in the hotel, but we have the accreditation to sell outside. Very soon we will be moving outside,” he said. In addition, Eusbett Hotel operates a fuel station under the Goil brand, which he said was recognized as the overall best fuel station in Ghana within its first two years of operation. The hotel has also invested in agriculture, including a cattle ranch and vegetable farms that supply produce such as tomatoes, lettuce, cabbage, and onions for its kitchens. Mr. Robert Mensah added that the company is part of a network of authorized service centres for Toyota Ghana and has emerged as a top performer among the centres over the past five years. Beyond his role at the hotel, Mr. Robert Mensah has also established his own business in cleaning services and construction supplies. He said his cleaning business started with a single bank contract and has since expanded, employing several staff. “At the end of the month, they paid me, and the relationship was good. Over time, the cleaners became my staff, and currently my senior supervisor started as a janitor,” he said. He noted that maintaining transparency with his employer has been key to balancing his corporate role and personal business interests. “One is full disclosure. I made my CEO aware of everything that I’m doing. The second is not to do anything that competes with what I am originally employed for,” he explained. He encouraged young people to cultivate mentorship and develop an entrepreneurial mindset while maintaining integrity in their professional lives. “Seek for mentors and build the intrapreneurship attitude in you. You can work for somebody and build something around you but declare it to your CEO and ensure that you do not compete with your organization,” he advised. About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. Springboard Road Show Foundation Marketing and Communications Genevieve Mensah

Hangout

AUB Dassan Founder Calls for Stronger Agric Policy Focus on Springboard Hangout

/

Founder of AUB Dassan Limited, Mr. Mumuni Dasanah Issah, has made a strong case for national policy to tilt heavily toward agriculture if Ghana wants to reduce poverty and slow down environmental damage. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with Comfort Ocran during the Ghana Grows tour in the Upper West Region, he said his academic research proved that real transformation begins with Agric focused policy thinking. According to him, a master’s level study on poverty and environmental degradation opened his eyes to a simple truth. Agriculture remains the country’s most practical tool for sustainable change. He said the findings pointed to four activity clusters that shape the food ecosystem. These are primary production, secondary processing, tertiary food services and agricultural support services. These insights eventually became the roadmap for AUB Dassan Limited. Mr. Dassan explained that his time working with Zoom lion during a decentralization policy shift also pushed him deeper into agro processing. Data at the time showed that the Upper West Region was deeply rural. This meant waste management alone could not support long term business growth. He said the more rural a place is, the stronger its link to agriculture. That convinced him that his future was in food processing rather than waste services. He shared that AUB Dassan began in 2015 from a rented single room where he outsourced milling and focused on packaging. The early years were tough but he stayed committed. His big break came in 2017 when MiDA supported his distribution efforts with motorbikes that pushed his products across Wa, Nadowli, Jirapa and nearby communities. Today, AUB Dassan operates as a growing processing center with more than 200 potential products across six major lines. These include breakfast foods, flours, nut butters, spices, beverages and vegetables. Many of the products are built around reducing post harvest losses. He explained that when farmers begin losing produce, his team moves quickly to buy and process before the food goes bad. He said some of their Tom Brown mixes now include yam, sweet potato and plantain. Interns from the Ghana Grows program, including Nuria Zuharuna and Winifred Zoya, also shared their excitement about learning from his journey. They said the internship is giving them the confidence and skills to begin their own agro processing ideas. Looking ahead, Mr. Dassan said his dream is to move into tertiary food production with ready to eat meals. He noted that consumers of the future want more convenience and businesses must think ahead to meet that demand. He advised young people to keep their eyes on consistency instead of quick wins. He said no job comes with guaranteed potential. The person is the potential. His message to the youth was simple. Pick something, stick with it and keep building. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Genevieve Mensah